Mindblown: a blog about philosophy.

A test in which a positive reaction is indicated by formation of a precipitate in the solution being tested.  

A substance bringing about precipitation.  

A risk management principle, originally developed in the environmental movement, based on the concept of avoiding any new action (e.g., introducing a new technology or a new drug) that carries a hypothetical risk for human or planetary health, regardless of whether the hypothesis has been subjected to formal testing.  

Before or at the beginning of a capillary network, such as a precapillary sphincter.  

In front of the axis of a limb or of the body.  

The agreement of a health care funding agent (e.g., a health maintenance organization, health insurer, or governmental agency) to defray the costs of a proposed treatment or procedure before its occurrence.  

A preliminary drug given to facilitate induction of general anesthesia.  

A light anesthesia produced by a medication given before anesthesia.  

Any biochemical precursors to male hormones. In women with polycystic ovaries, elevated levels of pre-androgens such as androstenedione and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) are found in the bloodstream. These steroid hormones are synthesized in the adrenal glands; DHEA, DHEA sulfate, and androstenedione are converted in target tissues (such as the prostate gland) into dihydrotestosterone, which produces masculinizing…

To the condition immediately before death. Taking place right before the moment of death.